This is a truly stunning cover! The man portrayed here -- the great Italian poet, Dante-- is depicted sitting at a table, apparently comparing two books for accuracy of information, or perhaps to investigate two opposing views.

Aside from the fact that Dante is a fascinating figure in his own right, I think that this portrait is also a perfect symbol of the quintessential bookworm -- someone who just can't get enough of books, even trying to read two at the same time! The poet is obviously absorbed in his reading, totally oblivious to the world around him. He's probably sitting at his desk, in his own private study.

I love the warm, cozy color scheme of this painting; the main color is burnt sienna. This masterpiece was created by the Italian Renaissance artist, Luca Signorelli (see links below). It's located at Cappella di San Brizio,Il Duomo,Orvieto, a city located in southwestern Umbria, Italy. The cover photograph was taken by the author of this biography.

In addition to the color scheme, I also love how beautifully, as well as realistically, the two books have been painted. I feel as if I could touch them, pick them up. The one propped up on the desk seems to be a new book (at the time), while the one on the desk is obviously a much older one.

Although Dante is sitting at a desk, this composition is far from boring. In fact, it's full of sharply opposing angles. Dante is looking toward the right (his left, in the painting), and this movement is echoed by his right hand, while his left hand, which is resting on the older book, opposes that movement. The whole line of his body leads the eye down to the hand resting on the older book, though.

The font used for the poet's name is a classical one, totally appropriate for the cover. I like that the name is emphasized, too; the rest of the title is done in an italic font.

I'm so glad you like my pick! Although, as you know, I have a thing for the color blue, there's something about burnt sienna that absolutely enchants me...and yes, I, too, love the feeling of an aged cover. In this case, I think it's there because the painting was unfortunately damaged at some point in time.

To be honest, I don't know much about Signorelli myself. I barely remember him from my Art History classes in college. Gotta do something about that...

Thanks for complimenting my analysis of the painting! I really enjoy doing that sort of thing when I a cover every Saturday. That's why I will NEVER stop doing this meme, even if no one else participates in it!